ARSENAL skipper Per Mertesacker says he’s “proud” of all the community work that the club is involved in across Camden and Islington.

The Gunners’ towering German defender paid a visit to the mental health football programme which takes place at The Arsenal Hub in Holloway every week.

Mertesacker, who worked in a mental health hospital as a young man, chatted to coaches and participants at the Arsenal in the Community-run session, which provides participants tackling mental health issues with a safe and supportive place to play football.

They also get to play football matches against groups from other clubs, and the chance to watch the Gunners play at the Emirates Stadium.

“It was great to come and meet the guys and hear their stories and understand how the football programme is helping them a little bit,” said Mertesacker.

“For me it’s always a privilege to come and see the projects we’re involved with around Emirates Stadium.

“It makes me very proud.”